Daimler 250 V8 1962–1969 car dimensions: 4590 mm long, 1695 mm wide and 1460 mm high. Unladen weight is 1,430 kg. Boot space with the seats up is 368 litres.
The cabin provides traditional luxury with standard leather seats, walnut veneer trim and a split-bench front seat that forms a full bench when adjusted equally, allowing occasional three-across seating thanks to the column shift. A heater and demister system ducts controlled warm air to front and rear compartments. Power-assisted steering is optional. From the 1967 V8-250 update, reclining seats, padded dash top and door cappings plus a heated rear window are standard. No electronic driver aids appear in period specifications.
Boot space measures approximately 13 cubic feet, enough for several suitcases or golf clubs, with the spare wheel and tools stored under the felt-backed floor.
The cabin uses high-quality leather seats as standard, with a split-bench front design that can form a continuous bench. Walnut wood trim is present throughout. Later cars from 1967 add reclining front seats, ventilated leather upholstery, padded dash and door cappings, plus a heated rear window. The overall feel is refined and traditional, with a quiet smooth character suited to relaxed cruising.
Fuel use typically 15-19 mpg.
Annual service recommended. twice yearly if over 6000 miles.
Four-wheel disc brakes with vacuum servo as standard.
Front seat belts available as option.
Power steering optional on most cars.
Fuel consumption sits in the 15 to 19 mpg range under normal use. The 2.5-litre V8 runs on petrol via twin SU carburettors and pairs with a three-speed automatic as the usual fitment, or a four-speed manual with optional overdrive on later examples.
Servicing needs are straightforward for a classic of this type. An annual service covers most owners, rising to two per year for higher annual mileage. Regular oil and filter changes with the correct 20W/50 mineral oil keep the engine healthy. Coolant must stay at a 50/50 antifreeze mix to protect the alloy heads.
Safety equipment centres on Dunlop disc brakes at all four wheels with Lockheed vacuum servo assistance. These prove effective when in good order. Front seat belts were an optional extra, and power-assisted steering was widely specified though not mandatory. No formal crash-test ratings appear in period records.
Keeping the car focuses on body rust checks at common points such as sills, chassis legs and spring hangers, plus routine greasing of the front suspension. Parts commonality with the Jaguar Mk2 helps availability. The smooth V8 rewards careful fluid maintenance and remains a reliable long-term companion when looked after.
Length 4590 mm, Width 1695 mm, Height 1460 mm, Wheelbase 2730 mm (250 V8 1962–1969)
Sources: manufacturer data, de.wikipedia.org, dloc.org.uk, classiccarportraits.co.uk.